Slowest to fastest

The money is set to balance out areas that will not be covered by the likes of Virgin Media and BT, which are currently already bringing super-fast broadband to areas in the UK.

"Two years ago Britain had some of the slowest broadband speeds in Europe; today our plans will deliver some of the fastest," said Osborne.

"But we should not be complacent by saying it is enough to be the best in Europe when countries like Korea and Singapore do even better."

The Budget is putting a big focus on broadband and it seems that Osborne is now seeing the internet the same way he is seeing roads and railways – essential infrastructures that need to be developed and maintained.

Speaking about the pledge, Andrew Ferguson, editor of Thinkbroadband, said: "Broadband is moving up the infrastructure ladder, and the 2012 Budget recognises its importance to underpinning business, both those engaged directly in digital content creation, and more traditional businesses."